Think: There are at least 11 ways you and your business might be disrupted–that’s right 11! If you’re curious about what they are and how you might spot disruption before it hits you, I encourage you to read–and then think about–this article. (Cheater’s guide: Here are the eleven ways: Technology, wealth distribution, telecommunications, environment, demographics, public health, economy, government, infrastructure, geopolitics, and education.)
Think Hard: One of those “disruptors” is the environment. We are now destroying the natural world–mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles–at a staggering rate. Many of these creatures (think pollinators for example) serve a vital role to our very existence. The disappearance these animals is something we all need to think long and hard about, today!
Think Harder: Another area of possible disruption is geopolitics. As this article explains, 1.2 billion people could be displaced by the climate crisis in 2050. These people will need to go somewhere and it’s imperative we begin thinking about the issue sooner rather than later.
Think Smarter: One smart way to think about the future is to embrace “seven generation” thinking. If you’re looking for help getting started, try asking a new question. The key question of the future is not: “How can I make a difference?” it is “How can we make the difference?”
Heart-Centered Thinking: The aforementioned issues can be difficult to think about and I understand the desire not to think about them. Alas, if we wish to be good ancestors it is imperative that we do so. Will you be a good ancestor? Don’t just think about it, however. Act as those the life of your future great, great, great, great, great, great, great granddaughter depends upon it, because it does!
Until next week: Don’t stop thinking about the future! But also never forget “It is easier to act your way into a new way of thinking than think your way into a new way of acting“!
